Seeds Guide
Seeds are a rich source of healthy fats. Some of these seeds provide an appropriate amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Some are an abundant amount of calcium. The seeds have health benefits similar to nuts.
Key Recommendation
- Variety: Include a variety of seeds in your diet. Choose at least 2 types of different seeds every day – one from each group of seeds.
- Soak: Soak all types of seeds 6-8 hours before eating. You can also soak seeds overnight.
Seeds Categories
Based on the necessity of eating, we divide seeds into the following categories.
Essential Seeds (Group 1)
- Flaxseeds.
- Chia Seeds.
- Hemp seeds.
- Pumpkin seeds.
You should include one type of seeds from the above list in your daily diet. These are the healthiest seeds rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Recommended Seeds (Group 2)
- Cucumber seeds.
- Lotus seeds.
- Poppy seeds.
- Rockmelon (cantaloupe) seeds.
- Sesame seeds.
- Sunflower seeds.
- Watermelon seeds.
You should choose any 1-2 types of seeds from this list every week.
In this group, poppy seeds are more important because of their high calcium content. 5 grams of poppy seeds provide around 72 mg of calcium. Sesame seeds also strengthen the bones, joints, and nerves, according to ayurveda.
Recommended Ratio
Nuts Groups | Recommended Ratio |
Group 1 | 75% |
Group 2 | 25% |
Recommended Seeds Servings
Seeds are an important part of the whole food plant-based diet. In combination with legumes and nuts, seeds should contribute 25% of your diet, according to plate principle.
Standard Serving Size for Nuts
Soaked Seeds | 1 tablespoon (around 7 grams) |
Seed Butter (homemade) | 1 tablespoon (around 7 grams) |
Recommended Daily Amount
Age Group | Recommended Daily Amount |
1-3 | ¼ tablespoon |
4-8 | ½ tablespoon |
9-11 | ¾ tablespoon |
12-70 | 1 tablespoon |
70+ | ¾ tablespoon |
Pregnant | 1 tablespoon |
Lactating | 1 tablespoon |
The highly recommended seeds are flaxseeds and poppy seeds. Flaxseeds are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, and poppy seeds provide an abundant amount of calcium.
I usually recommend mixing both kinds of seeds in the following ratio and take them in the recommended amount given above.
Flaxseeds | 75 grams |
Poppy Seeds | 25 grams |